Arguably, the reason the 308 didn’t get a five-star rating wasn’t because of how well the Peugeot might cope in a crash, but was more to do with some of the safety technology reserved for higher-spec models or as optional extras when the car was launched.
Now though, every 308 comes with an active safety brake system that has a night function, plus cyclist and pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, driver-attention warning, lane-keep assist and traffic-sign recognition. However, you still have to upgrade to GT trim to get Peugeot’s SOS and assistance system, while only top-of-the-range GT Premium trim gets blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
Neither the 308 SW estate or its hatchback sibling featured on our latest list of the best cars to own, which is based on owners’ feedback from the Driver Power satisfaction survey. Two Peugeots did manage to make it onto the list though: the Mk2 3008 SUV and the Mk2 208 supermini.
Meanwhile, Peugeot as a brand finished seventh (out of 31) in the best manufacturer rankings, ahead of rivals such as Skoda (12th) and Nissan (15th), but behind fellow French firm Renault (sixth) and sister brand Vauxhall (fourth). Peugeot owners who took part in Driver Power were pleased with the handling of their cars, plus the interiors and practicality they offer. Value for money was the only area where the brand didn’t excel, finishing in 25th place in that category.
| Euro NCAP safety ratings | |
| Euro NCAP safety rating | Four stars (2022) |
| Adult occupant protection | 76% |
| Child occupant protection | 84% |
| Vulnerable road user protection | 68% |
| Safety assist | 65% |
Best buy: Peugeot 308 SW Hybrid GT
We think the Peugeot 308 SW with Hybrid 145 powertrain is the pick of the bunch. It offers the most boot space in the line-up – which is the main reason most people buy an estate car – plus will be the cheapest to insure and should deliver impressive fuel efficiency. That said, if you’re a company-car driver, the electric E-308 SW is the one to go for, thanks to its rock-bottom tax bill. Plus GT trim offers extra kit such as a reversing camera, matrix LED headlights and keyless go.
Alternatives
There might not be as much competition in the compact family estate car market as there once was, but the Peugeot 308 SW still has its challengers, and not just the Vauxhall Astra Sport Tourer which it’s closely related to under the metal.
For instance, there’s the Toyota Corolla Touring Sports, which has a very efficient hybrid system and is surprisingly enjoyable to drive. Or there’s Skoda Octavia Estate, which is a fantastic all-round family car with masses of space and economical engines. But if room is a priority (and you’re looking for an estate, so why wouldn’t it be?), then it’s hard to look past the Skoda Superb Estate, which is more expensive but feels more upmarket and has one of the biggest boots (up to 690 litres) in the business.
Then, of course, there’s the litany of practical, family-friendly and highly regarded SUVs on the market for similar money to the 308 SW, such as the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, Renault Symbioz and Volkswagen T-Roc, to name just a few. Plus there are also all-electric ones like the Skoda Elroq and Renault Scenic E-Tech to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Peugeot 308 SW is an attractive yet practical alternative to the army of ordinary family SUVs on the market these days, but there are more spacious estate cars around and the brand’s i-Cockpit isn’t for everyone.
